Today’s auto parts market is competitive – and international. Vehicle owners and garages often can often choose between new and used original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and aftermarket parts. We’d like to help you understand the pros and cons of using aftermarket parts, so that you can make an informed decision.

Pros of Aftermarket Parts:

1. Cost-Effective: Aftermarket parts are generally less expensive than OEM parts, sometimes by a significant margin.
2. Variety: A wider selection is available, giving you more options to find the part that suits your needs and budget.
3. Quality: While quality can vary, many aftermarket parts are comparable to, or even exceed, the quality of OEM parts.

Cons of Aftermarket Parts:

1. Overwhelming Selection: The vast array of options can be confusing, making it harder to choose the right part for your specific vehicle model.
2. Variable Quality: Not all aftermarket parts are created equal, and some may not match the quality of their OEM counterparts.
3. Potential Fit Issues: Some aftermarket parts may not fit as seamlessly as OEM parts, leading to additional adjustments or compatibility issues.

At Norris, we prioritize your car’s health and your satisfaction. We’re here to guide you through the selection process, ensuring you get the best part for your vehicle. Whether you opt for the affordability of aftermarket parts or the reliability of OEM parts, we’ve got you covered.

Remember, the road to the perfect car part is paved with knowledge. Drive confidently into your next repair or upgrade with the facts in hand, and Norris Automotive, as your roadmap!

At Norris, we know a lot about cars, which means we also know a lot about Kelley Blue Book (KBB). Since 1926, KBB has been the go-to resource in the automotive industry. It offers a range of services, assisting consumers like you and professionals like us in determining the fair market value of vehicles. Using data from dealerships, auctions, private sales, and industry experts, KBB analyzes factors such as make, model, year, mileage, condition, and geographic location.

Three primary values are typically provided by KBB:

Trade-In Value: This represents the amount a dealer might offer for a vehicle if the owner decides to trade it in. Generally lower than the private party sale value, it accounts for the dealer’s need to resell the car for a profit.
Private Party Value: This figure indicates the price one might expect to receive when selling a vehicle to another individual. It typically falls between the trade-in and dealer retail values.
Dealer Retail Value: Often referred to as the “asking price,” this value reflects what one might expect to pay for the same vehicle at a dealership. It tends to be higher than the private party value due to additional costs such as dealership overhead and profit margins.

We usually advise customers to utilize KBB as a starting point when negotiating to buy or sell, with the caveat that KBB values are estimates only. Things like a vehicle’s condition, maintenance history, and local market demand can significantly influence its true worth.

Kelley Blue Book serves as an invaluable resource in the automotive market, to our customers when they are navigating the buying and selling process. At Norris, we’re a resource for car sales, too. We can help you evaluate a vehicle that you’re thinking of purchasing. PRO Tip: If you’re selling a vehicle, ask us about Elite Motor Cars, our sister company.

If you’re getting ready to sell your car or truck, we can help you get your vehicle in its best condition, so you in turn can get the very best price at the sale. Kelly Blue Book and Norris Automotive – both great resources to have on your team!

As the weather warms up and spring arrives, you’re going to have foggy windows in your car. Whether it’s during early mornings or after a sudden rain shower, foggy windows can hinder visibility and make driving uncomfortable. But fear not! Here are some practical steps to tackle this issue:

Foggy on Why This Happens? In a word, it’s condensation. Foggy windows occur due to condensation forming on the inside of your car’s glass. Warm air from your breath, body heat, and wet clothing meets the cooler window surface, leading to misty windows. In the morning, the air outside your car is colder than the air inside, creating water vapor which then condenses into droplets leaving behind foggy, damp glass.

Clearing Up the Fog. Here are some suggestions to help you clear the moisture off your windshield.

Activate your car’s heater and front defrost. Warm air can hold more moisture, helping to clear the fog.

Turn on the AC to reduce humidity. The AC removes moisture from the air as it passes over the cooling coils.

Avoid Recirculation. Switch off the recirculation button. Fresh outside air is less humid, preventing further condensation.

Keep Windows Clean. Dirt particles and residue on the glass make it easier for condensation to form. Regularly clean both the inside and outside of your car’s windows using lint-free materials.

Ventilation. Crack a window slightly to balance humidity and temperature between the interior and exterior of your car. Proper ventilation helps prevent excessive condensation.

We know you’re not so foggy that you don’t know that windows are essential for safe driving. Follow these tips, and enjoy a fog-free view as you cruise into spring!

If your car were a person, your car’s transmission would be the heart. Whether you’re behind the wheel of an automatic or a manual vehicle, taking care of your transmission can significantly prolong its life. Here are some tips to keep your transmission healthy.

Warm Up
It’s never good to start exercising without warm ups. Cold transmission fluid can slow down gear engagement. Give your car a couple of minutes to warm up before hitting the road.

Keep Cool
Remember that high temperatures affect both your engine and transmission. Regularly maintain your cooling system to prevent overheating. Proper coolant levels and a well-functioning radiator are essential.

Push Park
Engage the parking brake, especially when parked on hills. Avoid stressing the parking pawl and other transmission components. A little extra care goes a long way.

Be Easy
Aggressive driving accelerates wear and tear on your transmission. Opt for smooth acceleration and gentle shifts. Even when your car is at operating temperature, avoid hard-driving habits that can shorten its lifespan.

Downshift Thoughtfully
Downshifting can prevent brake overheating, especially on hilly terrain. However, excessive downshifting can strain your transmission. Strike the right balance between engine braking and minimizing wear.

Full Stop
Before changing directions (such as shifting from “Park” to “Reverse”), bring your vehicle to a complete stop. Moving while shifting places unnecessary stress on your transmission.

Check Up
Even sealed transmissions require attention. Come see us regularly so we can check fluids and filters, replacing as needed. Proper maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Remember, a well-maintained transmission not only keeps your car running smoothly but also contributes to your overall driving experience. When you take care of your transmission, you extend its life, and the life of your car. At Norris Automotive, we’re here to help you keep your whole vehicle in tip top condition. Just think of us as your primary care provider for your car!

At Norris, we can fix pretty much anything. But we’re realistic, too. Eventually, you’ll face the decision: repair or replace? Here are some practical ways to help you make that choice:

1. Cost of Repairs vs. Car Value:
   • When the cost of repairs or ongoing maintenance exceeds the actual value of your car, it’s time to consider a replacement.
   • Older cars tend to require more expensive repairs, so keep an eye on those repair bills.
2. Safety Considerations:
   • Older cars lack modern safety features found in new vehicles, such as advanced airbags, stability control, and rearview cameras.
   • If your car is showing its age and safety is a concern, it might be time to upgrade.
3. Fuel Efficiency:
   • As cars age, their fuel efficiency tends to decline.
   • If your car is guzzling gas and mileage is suffering, consider a replacement. Newer models are more fuel-efficient.
4. Future Repairs:
   • Look beyond the current repair. Ask yourself: What’s likely to break next?
   • Ask us to help you assess looming problems and estimate future repair costs.
5. 50-Percent Rule:
   • Use the “50-percent rule”: When repairs cost 50 percent of your car’s value, it’s time to replace.
   • Determine your car’s worth using tools like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds.
6. Parts Availability:
   • If parts for your car are becoming scarce or expensive, it may be time to move on.
   • Newer cars have readily available parts and better reliability.
7. Habitual Repairs:
   • If your car has been nickel-and-diming you for years, it’s time to evaluate.
   • Repeatedly repairing an aging car may not be cost-effective.
8. Safety Features:
   • Consider the safety features in newer cars: blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warnings, and collision alerts.
   • These features enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents.
9. Engine and Transmission:
   • If your car needs a new engine or transmission, it’s a significant expense.
   • Evaluate whether it’s worth investing in major repairs.
10. Trade-In or Retail Value:
    • Know what your car is worth before making repair decisions.
    • Use online tools to estimate trade-in or retail value.

Remember, the decision to repair or replace depends on your individual circumstances. If you’re doing a lot of the repairs yourself, you may be able to keep your car longer. Whether you choose to pamper your old car or invest in a new one, Norris Automotive is right here to help you!

PS Trying to decide on a used vehicle? Read this guide to deciding on a car with less mileage or less age.

The wheels on your car go round and round around the axle, but did you know they should also go around and around your vehicle, too? Tire rotation is a simple procedure that involves moving your tires from one position to another on your vehicle, such as from front to rear or from left to right. This helps prevent uneven tire wear, which can affect your car’s performance, safety, and fuel efficiency.

Why Rotating is Necessary

Longer Life. Tire rotation extends the life of your tires. By rotating your tires, you ensure that each tire wears out evenly, which means you don’t have to replace them as often.

Safer Driving. Tire rotation improves your car’s handling and traction. Uneven tire wear can cause your car to lose balance and stability, which can affect your steering, braking, and cornering. By rotating your tires, you maintain optimal tire pressure and tread depth, which improves your grip on the road and reduces the risk of skidding or hydroplaning.

Better Economy. Tire rotation boosts your fuel efficiency. Uneven tire wear can increase the rolling resistance of your tires, which means your engine has to work harder to move your car. This results in more fuel consumption and emissions. By rotating your tires, you reduce the rolling resistance and improve your gas mileage.

The frequency of tire rotation depends on several factors, such as your driving habits, your vehicle type, and your tire specifications. However, a general rule of thumb is to rotate your tires every 5,000 to 7,500 miles, or every six months, whichever comes first. You can also check your owner’s manual or your tire manufacturer’s recommendations for more specific guidelines.

If you are looking for a reliable and affordable place to rotate your tires, come to Norris Automotive! We have the experience, equipment, and expertise to perform tire rotation for any vehicle make and model. It’s just one of the many ways we keep your car in good shape and maintained, saving you money and making you safer!

To schedule an appointment for tire rotation or any other tire service, contact us today.

Car antifreeze is a toxic liquid that prevents your car’s engine from freezing or overheating. It has a sweet taste and smell that attracts animals, especially dogs and cats. If they drink it, even a little bit, it can cause kidney failure, seizures, coma, and death.

Antifreeze poisoning is common in pets, and can happen any time of the year. Some signs of antifreeze poisoning are vomiting, drooling, weakness, staggering, depression, thirst, urination, and seizures. If you think your pet has ingested antifreeze, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away. Antifreeze poisoning is an emergency, and every minute counts.

The best way to prevent antifreeze poisoning is to keep antifreeze away from animals. Here are some tips:

• Store antifreeze in closed containers, and keep them in a safe place where animals can’t reach them.
• Clean up any antifreeze spills or leaks immediately, and dispose of them safely.
• Use antifreeze products that have propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol, as they are less harmful to animals. But still be careful with them.
• Check your car for leaks or damage, and fix them as soon as possible.
• Don’t let your pets roam outside, especially near roads, garages, or other places where antifreeze may be.
• Tell your family, friends, and neighbors about the dangers of antifreeze to animals, and ask them to do the same.

At Norris Automotive, we’re all about keeping you safe – and that includes the four legged members of your family, too. If you have any questions, let us know!

Forget diet and exercise. This year, make some resolutions for your car, and call it a day – or should we say call it a year! Your car is an important part of your life, and it deserves some attention and care. So here are some new year’s resolutions for your car that will help you keep it in top shape and save you money and hassle in the long run.

Check your oil regularly
Oil is the lifeblood of your engine, and it needs to be checked and changed regularly to prevent damage and ensure optimal performance. You should check your oil level at least once a month, and change it according to your owner’s manual or your mechanic’s recommendation.

Keep your tires in good condition
Your tires are (hopefully!) the only part of your car that touches the road, and they affect your safety, handling, and fuel efficiency. Make a goal to inspect your tires regularly for signs of wear, damage, or low pressure. You should also get your tires rotated and balanced every 6,000 miles or every six months, to ensure even wear and prevent vibrations.

Clean your car inside and out
A clean car is not only more pleasant to drive, but also more valuable and more durable. This is the year to resolve to keep it clean. A clean car will make you feel more comfortable, confident, and proud of your ride.

Maintain your brakes.
Your brakes are one of the most important safety features of your car, and they need to be checked and serviced regularly to prevent accidents and costly repairs. You should pay attention to any signs of brake problems, such as squeaking, grinding, pulsating, or soft pedals, and bring it to us if you sense a problem. You should also check your brake fluid level every few months, and top it off if needed.

Follow your maintenance schedule
Your car’s manufacturer has a recommended maintenance schedule for your car, based on the mileage and age of your vehicle. This schedule tells you when to change your oil, filters, spark plugs, belts, hoses, fluids, and other parts that need regular attention. There are even car maintenance apps to help you keep track.

By following these new year’s resolutions for your car, you will be able to enjoy your car more, save money on gas and repairs, and extend the life of your vehicle. Your car will thank you for it, and you’ll be happy, too. Happy new year, and happy driving from all of us at Norris Automotive!

We all have that someone who is almost impossible to buy for. Chances are pretty good that they have a car. For those car lovers, here are some suggestions will make them happy, and are also useful, practical, and affordable.

A Dash Cam: A dash cam is a device that records everything that happens on the road. It can be a great gift for car lovers who want to capture their driving adventures, or who want to have evidence in case of an accident or a traffic violation. A dash cam can also provide security and peace of mind for car owners.
A Car Vacuum: A car vacuum is a handy tool that to help keep vehicles clean and tidy. It can suck up dirt, dust, crumbs, pet hair, and other debris from the seats, floor, trunk, and other hard-to-reach places. A car vacuum can also improve the air quality and the appearance of the car.

A Car Detailing Kit: A car detailing kit is a set of products and tools for restoring, protecting, and enhancing the appearance of a vehicle. It can include items such as car wash soap, wax, polish, microfiber towels, brushes, sponges, and more. A car detailing kit can help car lovers maintain their car’s shine, color, and performance. A gift certificate to a local car detailing business is also a great idea.

A Car Charger: A car charger is a device that can charge your laptop or other gadgets while you are on the road. It can be a lifesaver for road warriorswho need to stay connected, entertained, or productive while driving. If your loved one spends time in the car line picking up kids – get this one.

A Car Organizer: A car organizer is a product that can help car lovers keep their belongings organized and accessible in their vehicles. It can include items such as trunk organizers, seat organizers, console organizers, visor organizers, and more. A car organizer can help car lovers save space, reduce clutter, and find what they need quickly and easily.

An Oil Change Kit: For the DIY’er, consider giving everything they need for an oil change. This would include an oil filter, a drain plug washer, a funnel, a wrench, a drain pan, and the appropriate amount of oil for the car. If you don’t know the type of oil and filter, a gift certificate would do!

AAA membership. AAA is a service that provides roadside assistance, discounts, travel planning, and other benefits to its members. AAA stands for American Automobile Association, and it has over 60 million members in the United States and Canada. They offer roadside assistance, too!

A gift certificate to Norris Automotive! Ask us, and we’ll help you get the one size fits all gift that everyone needs sooner or later!

These are just some of the gifts that you can get for car lovers this holiday season. Of course, you can also get them something more personal, such as a personalized license plate, a custom car mat, or a car-themed mug or t-shirt. Whatever you choose, we are sure that your car lover will appreciate it and enjoy it. You don’t have to tell them that it was our idea, but we would consider it a gift to us if you referred them to us for car inspections, maintenance, and repair!

We do a lot of oil changes at Norris, but we also know that many of you change your own oil at home. It’s truly not a hard job once you learn how.

When you finish the job, however, you’re stuck with used motor oil that needs to be disposed of in a responsible way. Disposing of used motor oil improperly can cause serious harm to wildlife, water sources, and soil. Used motor oil can be refined and reused as new oil, reducing the need for crude oil extraction. And – spoiler alert – at Norris, we’re happy to take that used motor oil off your hands!

Here’s how to do it.

1. Contain it. Collect the used motor oil in a clean, leak-proof container. You can use the original container that the oil came in, or any other plastic or metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Do not mix the oil with any other fluids, such as antifreeze, brake fluid, or gasoline. This can contaminate the oil and make it unsuitable for recycling.
2. Bring it. Find a drop-off location (like us!) that accepts used motor oil for recycling. You can search for motor oil recycling locations online or go to Earth9111 to find a drop-off location near you. Some common places that accept used motor oil are auto parts stores, service stations, and municipal waste facilities. Some of these places may charge a small fee or have certain restrictions, so it is best to call ahead and confirm before you bring your oil. At Norris – we accept it for free.

It really is that easy. By recycling used motor oil and oil filters, you are helping to conserve natural resources, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and prevent pollution. Thank you for doing your part to keep our planet clean and green! And thank you for choosing Norris as your drop off point!